The Ohio State Buckeyes are losing a plethora of players to the NFL Draft this April, and many of those departures will come on the defensive side of the ball.
As the Ohio State Buckeyes gear up for another highly anticipated season, one name continues to capture the attention of fans and analysts alike: Jeremiah Smith. The five-star wide receiver and top recruit in the 2024 class has already made waves in Columbus, and now, he’s set an ambitious goal that could define the Buckeyes’ 2025 season.
Smith, who enrolled early to participate in spring practices, has shown flashes of brilliance reminiscent of Buckeye greats like Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Despite being a freshman, Smith’s work ethic and on-field prowess have placed him in a position to become a key contributor in Ohio State’s offense right out of the gate.
In a recent interview, Smith revealed his ultimate goal for 2025: to break Ohio State’s single-season receiving record and help bring a national championship back to Columbus. It’s a lofty aspiration, but given his early performances and the buzz surrounding his potential, it’s not out of reach.
Rising Through the Ranks
Smith’s journey to Columbus was marked by fierce competition from top programs across the country. The Florida native was heavily recruited by schools like Alabama and Miami, but Ohio State’s storied history of producing elite wide receivers and the opportunity to work with offensive coordinator Brian Hartline proved too enticing to pass up.
Since arriving on campus, Smith has quickly adapted to the Buckeyes’ fast-paced offense. During spring practices, reports indicated that Smith was making spectacular catches and displaying a level of maturity beyond his years. His combination of speed, route-running precision, and reliable hands has drawn comparisons to some of Ohio State’s best receivers.
Breaking Records and Chasing Glory
Smith’s goal to break the single-season receiving record is no small feat. The current record is held by Marvin Harrison Jr., who tallied 1,263 receiving yards in the 2022 season. Smith acknowledges the challenge but believes that with the right preparation, support from his teammates, and staying healthy, it’s a goal within reach.
“I’ve always set high expectations for myself,” Smith said. “Ohio State has a tradition of excellence, and I want to contribute to that legacy. Breaking records is great, but ultimately, it’s about winning games and bringing a national championship back to Columbus.”
The Buckeyes haven’t won a national championship since 2014, and fans are hungry for another title run. With Smith’s emergence as a top offensive threat, Ohio State’s chances look promising. Paired with a strong quarterback, an experienced offensive line, and a defense that continues to improve under head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes are poised for a breakout year.
Leadership Beyond the Field
While Smith’s on-field goals are ambitious, his leadership qualities have also been praised by coaches and teammates. Despite his freshman status, he’s become a vocal presence in the locker room, encouraging fellow receivers and pushing the team to maintain a championship mindset.
“Jeremiah’s not just about personal stats,” Coach Day said. “He’s all about the team, and that’s what makes him special. He wants to win, and he wants to help everyone around him get better. That’s the kind of player who can lead a team to a national championship.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Jeremiah Smith to see if he can turn his lofty goals into reality. Whether he breaks records or not, one thing is clear: Smith’s talent, determination, and leadership will play a crucial role in Ohio State’s pursuit of national glory.
For Buckeye Nation, the future looks bright with Smith leading the charge.
